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Athletic Bilbao have no intention of selling Fernando Llorente in January

Athletic Bilbao plan to make Fernando Llorente see out the season in Spain, with a January transfer ruled out.

By Francisco Acedo

Last Updated: 18/12/12 5:50pm

Fernando Llorente: Looking to move on, but is being prevented from doing so by Athletic Bilbao

The Spain international has been pushing for a move since the summer, with it his desire to take on a new challenge after spending his entire professional career to date with Bilbao.

He feels that he has given loyal service to the club, making over 300 appearances and netting over 100 goals.

A switch to the Premier League has been widely touted, with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United said to be keen.

Llorente has been restricted to a bit-part role at Bilbao this season after conceding that he wants to move on, but the Primera Liga outfit are reluctant to sell and have no intention of discussing a deal during the winter transfer window.

"This player makes our team more competitive and his future will be decided by the club," said Bilbao president Josu Urrutia.

"At the moment we need to maintain the quality level within our squad, not reduce it.